Add BrightSurf on Google Email

New electrodes could increase efficiency of electric vehicles and aircraft

Researchers from Texas A&M University developed new supercapacitor electrodes using dopamine-functionalized graphene and Kevlar nanofibers, significantly improving mechanical performance. This breakthrough paves the way for creating sturdy, stiff batteries, which could enable lighter electric vehicles and aircraft.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalMatter·DateNov 22, 2019
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

UK needs to act to prevent electric vehicle battery waste mountain -- new study

A new study highlights the need for governments and industry to act now to develop a robust recycling infrastructure for end-of-life lithium ion batteries. The UK has an enormous opportunity to address this issue, with analysis suggesting eight gigafactories are needed by 2040 to service demand for recycled materials.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature·DateNov 6, 2019

Shedding new light on the charging of lithium-ion batteries

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed a new mechanism to speed up lithium-ion battery charging using concentrated light. By exposing the cathode to white light, the charging time is reduced by a factor of two without degrading battery performance.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 31, 2019

Lithium ion battery design can charge an electric vehicle in 10 minutes

Researchers have developed a lithium ion battery design that can charge an electric vehicle in just 10 minutes, increasing its driving range. The design uses elevated temperatures to increase reaction rates and keeps the cell cool during discharge, eliminating the risk of lithium plating and improving cycle life.

SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·DateOct 30, 2019
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Autonomous electric minibus in development to tour Timanfaya

The UC3M has developed a completely autonomous electric vehicle to replace combustion vehicles in the Timanfaya National Park. The minibus features level 5 autonomy, allowing it to operate without human control, and advanced AI perception systems for navigation and localization.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·DateSep 30, 2019

Electric vehicles would be a breath of fresh air for Houston

Researchers found that electric vehicles can improve air quality in Houston by reducing nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds emitted by gasoline and diesel vehicles. The study suggests that complete electrification of transportation could prevent up to 246 premature deaths annually in greater Houston by 2040.

SourceCornell University·JournalAtmospheric Environment·DateJun 11, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Electric car switch on for health benefits

A study suggests that transitioning to electric vehicles could reduce cardiopulmonary illness due to air pollution, leading to improved quality of life. The research found that the financial costs of building charging infrastructure are lower than the health benefits in many scenarios.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles·DateMay 16, 2019

Researchers to help develop next-generation hybrid and electric vehicles

The project aims to reduce cost, weight, and volume of systems powering hybrid and plug-in electric vehicles while improving performance, efficiency, and reliability. Researchers will design silicon-carbide integrated circuits for power modules and develop methods for packaging and integrating these circuits with other components.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·DateApr 29, 2019

Electric vehicle adoption improves air quality and climate outlook

The study found that electric vehicles have a net positive impact on air quality and climate change, reducing ozone and particulate matter pollution. Transitioning to EVs can improve public health, even with current energy mixes, as long as power generation shifts towards clean energy sources.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAtmospheric Environment·DateApr 12, 2019
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Researchers create new way to power electric cars

The UMass Lowell team's innovation uses water, carbon dioxide, and cobalt to produce hydrogen gas on demand, powering fuel cells and reducing emissions. This technology could enable electric vehicles of all sizes to run longer and is poised to address the growing demand for green energy.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateMar 21, 2019

Data-driven modeling and estimation of lithium-ion battery properties

A team of Columbia professors has designed a data-driven model to predict Li-Ion battery performance, aiming to reduce error rates from five percent to one percent. The model can help extend battery life and improve electric vehicles' efficiency by predicting charge levels and identifying weak cells.

SourceData Science Institute at Columbia·DateMar 19, 2019

Cause of cathode degradation identified for nickel-rich materials

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have identified the causes of capacity fading in nickel-rich layered materials, which could lead to improved battery performance for electric vehicles. The team used multiple research techniques, including synchrotron light sources and machine learning, to pinpoint the problem and provide p...

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMar 15, 2019

Hybrid electricity system would reduce rates, improve service

The new AC-DC hybrid distribution system minimizes power conversion requirements, reducing energy loss and infrastructure costs. This leads to lower electricity prices and improved service reliability for households and industries.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalInternational Journal of Electrical Power & Energy Systems·DateJan 31, 2019

2D materials may enable electric vehicles to get 500 miles on a single charge

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have developed 15 new types of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides that can act as catalysts in lithium-air batteries. These materials enable batteries to store up to 10 times more energy and charge faster, potentially increasing electric vehicle range to 400-500 miles on a single charge.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 10, 2019
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Building a better battery layer by layer

Researchers at Shinshu University developed a self-assembled monolayer coating that promotes efficient transportation within electrodes, suppressing side reactions in high-voltage lithium-ion batteries. The coating improved power density and cyclability, allowing the battery to maintain capacity even after 100 cycles.

SourceShinshu University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 12, 2018

New electric car charger is more efficient, 10 times smaller than current tech

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new electric vehicle fast charger that is 10 times smaller and wastes 60% less power than existing systems. The technology, called medium voltage fast charger (MVFC), has an efficiency of at least 97.5%, reducing operating costs and increasing revenue for consumers.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateOct 3, 2018

EV charging in cold temperatures could pose challenges for drivers

New research from Idaho National Laboratory found that cold temperatures significantly impact EV charging efficiency, leading to longer charging times. The study analyzed data from a fleet of electric vehicles in New York City, revealing a decrease in battery state of charge with lower temperatures.

SourceDOE/Idaho National Laboratory·JournalEnergy Policy·DateJul 31, 2018
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Scoping magnetic fields out for prevention

Physicists develop mathematical formula to approximate magnetic field circulation around a closed path or loop, based on Biot-Savart's law. The study provides a new approach to evaluate the effects of magnetic fields on human health and prevent exposure.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·DateJul 11, 2018

Volte-face: Research advises selling electric vehicles to untapped market of women

A new study by University of Sussex researchers recommends targeting highly educated women and retirees for electric vehicle sales, citing their environmental awareness and characteristics that make them ideal customers. The study highlights the need for a nuanced approach to increase electric car ownership, transcending gender neutral...

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateJul 4, 2018

Self-heating, fast-charging battery makes electric vehicles climate-immune

Researchers at Penn State developed a self-heating battery that can rapidly charge regardless of outside temperature. The battery's unique design allows for 15-minute charging at temperatures as low as -45 degrees F, reducing range anxiety and increasing driving distances.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 28, 2018

Rapid charging of electric vehicles aided by $1 million from DoE

Penn State engineers have developed a new lithium-ion battery that can charge electric vehicle batteries up to 10 times faster than current technology, regardless of temperature. The breakthrough could be a major selling point for customers and accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles.

SourcePenn State·DateMay 31, 2018
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Environmental impact of electric vehicles in China? It depends on how they are charged

Researchers found that private electric vehicles can reduce CO2 emissions by incentivizing slow charging, while electrifying buses and taxis is the most effective option for improving air quality in Beijing. The study's strategy aims to maximize the benefits of renewables by managing vehicle charging.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Energy·DateMay 1, 2018

Automated electric taxis could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and costs

Researchers developed a model to test the cost and capabilities of a fleet of shared, automated electric vehicles in New York City. The study found that about 6,500 vehicles could be sustained on 1,500 medium-power electric vehicle chargers across Manhattan, resulting in a 33,000-ton reduction in carbon dioxide emissions per year.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 28, 2018
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Fleet of automated electric taxis could deliver environmental and energy benefits

Researchers at Berkeley Lab analyzed the cost, energy, and environmental implications of a fleet of self-driving electric vehicles operating in Manhattan. They found that shared automated electric vehicles could get the job done at a lower cost while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 28, 2018

Future electric cars could recharge wirelessly while you drive

University of Colorado Boulder engineers are developing a proof of concept for wireless power transfer that can transmit electrical energy through electric fields at high frequencies. This technology has the potential to enable electric vehicles to charge on the go, reducing the need for frequent charging stations and increasing drivin...

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateMar 27, 2018

NREL research determines integration of plug-in electric vehicles

Research by NREL found that up to 3% of PEVs on the road (7.5 million vehicles) does not significantly increase residential power demand. However, uncoordinated charging in clusters may overload distribution transformers, requiring infrastructure upgrades.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateJan 23, 2018

Battery research could triple range of electric vehicles

Researchers at the University of Waterloo have developed a new battery technology that uses lithium metal electrodes to increase energy storage capacity. The breakthrough enables electric vehicles to travel up to 600 kilometres on a single charge, three times the current range.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJoule·DateDec 11, 2017
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Hearing hybrid and electric vehicles while quieting noise pollution

The European Union is requiring hybrid and pure electric vehicles to be equipped with acoustic vehicle alerting systems, which could lead to increased noise pollution. René Weinandy, head of Noise Abatement in Transport for the German Environment Agency, expressed concerns about the potential harm of these systems.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 5, 2017

Flexible production of electric motors for vehicles

Researchers at KIT will develop process knowledge and innovative systems for series- and type-flexible production of electric motors. The 'AnStaHa' project aims to support medium-sized component suppliers and plant equipment providers in the automotive industry.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·DateNov 22, 2017

Driving a Tesla may not trip your defibrillator

Researchers found that sitting in or standing near a charging Tesla port did not trigger a shock or affect defibrillator performance. The study's findings suggest electric vehicles are safe for individuals with cardiac defibrillators, according to the principal investigator.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 13, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

DC Hot Stick developed for first responder, worker safety

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed a probe to detect direct-current (DC) energy, ensuring safe contact with electrical lines. The 'Hot Stick' probe can penetrate cable insulation and indicate whether a cable is fully discharged of energy.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateAug 14, 2017

New material may help cut battery costs for electric cars, cellphones

Researchers have developed a new manganese and sodium-ion-based material that could potentially lower battery costs and improve ecofriendliness. The new material uses sodium instead of lithium, which is more abundant but has some drawbacks, such as lower energy density.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 6, 2017

Clean energy stored in electric vehicles to power buildings

Researchers at WMG, University of Warwick, discovered that intelligent management of vehicle-to-grid technology can improve EV battery life by up to 10% while powering large buildings. Their 'smart grid' algorithm optimizes energy transfer without degrading batteries.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalEnergy·DateJun 14, 2017
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Electric car subsidies may do more harm than good

A new study by Concordia economics professor Ian Irvine reveals that electric vehicle (EV) subsidies could actually increase greenhouse gas emissions in Canada. The subsidies encourage the production of more EVs but undermine efficiency requirements for conventional vehicles, resulting in a zero or negative near-term GHG benefit.

SourceConcordia University·JournalCanadian Public Policy·DateJun 7, 2017

Renewable energy needed to drive uptake of electric vehicles

A new study suggests that renewable energy sources are crucial for consumers to buy electric vehicles, as environmental performance trumps price and range confidence. The research found that participants prioritized the need for electricity to be produced from renewable sources for electric vehicles to be a true green alternative.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalTransportation Research Part D Transport and Environment·DateApr 3, 2017

Thinking outside the power box: Matthias Preindl takes converters virtual

Researchers at Columbia University are developing virtual power conversion systems that use interchangeable converter modules and software to control the converter function, reducing size, cost, and increasing reliability. These systems could lead to 20-30% reductions in Volt-Ampere rating for electric vehicle drivetrains.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateMar 13, 2017
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

'Ideal' energy storage material for electric vehicles developed

A team of Penn State materials scientists has developed a unique three-dimensional sandwich-like structure that protects the dense electric field in the polymer/ceramic composite from dielectric breakdown. The material has been shown to have high energy density, power density and excellent charge-discharge efficiency, making it highly ...

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 23, 2016

Today's electric vehicles can make a dent in climate change

A comprehensive study found that 90% of personal vehicles on the road can be replaced by low-cost electric vehicles, reducing emissions and meeting near-term climate targets. The study analyzed driving behavior and energy requirements to demonstrate the feasibility of widespread EV adoption.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Energy·DateAug 15, 2016

Cactus-inspired skin gives electric cars a spike

A new membrane inspired by cacti can improve fuel cell efficiency by up to four times in hot and dry conditions. This technology could transform the electric vehicle industry by reducing water management issues and increasing performance.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalNature·DateApr 27, 2016

Converting atmospheric carbon dioxide into batteries

Researchers at Vanderbilt University and George Washington University have developed a way to convert carbon dioxide into batteries using graphite electrodes replaced with carbon material recovered from the atmosphere. This process produces carbon nanotubes that can be incorporated into lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries, offering a ...

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 2, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Lithium battery catalyst found to harm key soil microorganism

New research reveals that a common lithium battery catalyst harms a key soil bacterium, raising concerns about the environmental impact of these materials. The study found that the compound nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) impairs the growth and respiration of Shewanella oneidensis, a hardy soil bacterium.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateFeb 4, 2016

Study: Many clean-tech subsidies should be greater

A new study suggests that governments can easily make subsidies too low when ignoring consumer demand uncertainty, leading to slower adoption of clean technologies. Higher subsidy levels are needed to kick-start sales and meet uncertain demand.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalManagement Science·DateJan 21, 2016

New sister Interoperability Center opens in Europe

The new center aims to harmonize electric vehicle charging infrastructure, enabling seamless communication between cars and grids. It drafts international standards for interoperability testing and develops physical devices to connect vehicles to the grid.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateDec 11, 2015
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Simple mathematical formula models lithium-ion battery aging

A team of Penn State researchers has created a simple mathematical formula to predict the most influential factors in lithium-ion battery aging. The formula takes into account state of charge, charging/discharging frequency, operating temperature, and current to estimate battery degradation.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateOct 30, 2015

A new measure for wireless power transfer

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology have developed a new method to measure the kQ product in real-time, allowing for highly efficient wireless power-transfer systems. This system improves design speeds, facilitates quick discovery of structures and dimensions, and enables rapid optimization of transmission frequencies.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·DateOct 8, 2015

Electric vehicle charging habits revealed

Analysis reveals that public charging infrastructure is not needed everywhere, with homes, workplaces, and 'hot spots' sufficient for adoption. Drivers tend to favor a few public stations when away from home, with workplace charging enabling significant electric range extension.

SourceDOE/Idaho National Laboratory·DateSep 30, 2015